Meghalaya-Assam border row: Second round of joint inspection to be likely conducted this week, says Tongkhar

SHILLONG:

Chairman of the West Khasi Hills regional committee on border dispute Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar on November 8 said that the second round of joint inspection to the areas of differences between Meghalaya and Assam will be carried out this week.

He informed that the joint inspection was initially scheduled for today (November 8), however, it has been postponed due to the proposed launch of the new district in Mairang. He also informed that his counterpart Atul Bora from Assam is yet to confirm the proposed inspection date scheduled for November 12.

The minister maintained that the committee is expecting a good response from the people similar to the first joint visit conducted earlier in other parts of the disputed areas under his jurisdiction.

"We plan to go to Trabari and I have requested the DC, ADC in-charge of Nongstoin to send police personnel or officials to see if the road is motorable, otherwise we plan to go by chopper," Tongkhar said.

"We want the participation of the people residing in those villages. Of course, there is no bar if some section of the people want to join us for the inspection. We want to talk and listen. We will prepare a report according to the findings which can be amicably accepted by both states," he added.

He said that unlike the earlier visit, which was from Meghalaya side, the joint visit this time has been initiated by Assam. The visit this time will include all stakeholders and not just the committee members, he said.

When asked whether the issue will be resolved within his tenure, Tongkhar said "Very much. I'm not sure if there will be a solution, but we are expecting to resolve the issue within this year. I have spoken to both the CMs requesting them to go for a joint inspection to Langpih area to which they have agreed to. They are waiting for us to complete the visit first in other areas. I hope Langpih will also be resolved after both CMs visit the area."

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